What is Rule 5?

Indiana law requires erosion control practices to be implemented on most construction projects in the state. 327 IAC 15-5 (known as ‘Rule 5’) is a performance-based regulation designed to reduce pollutants associated with construction and/or land disturbing activities. The requirements of Rule 5 now apply to all persons who are involved in construction activity (including clearing, grading, excavation and other land disturbing activities) that results in the disturbance of one (1) acre or more of total land area. The purpose of this rule is to establish requirements for stormwater discharges from construction activities so that public health, existing water uses, and aquatic life are protected.

An erosion and sediment control plan must be developed and submitted for review a minimum of 30 days prior to any land disturbing activity. Refer to Filing Requirements for Rule 5 for details. For construction activity that takes place outside the city limits of Washington, plans must be submitted to:

Daviess County SWCD

2526 East National Hwy.

Washington IN 47501

For construction activity that takes place within the city limits of Washington, contact the Washington Wastewater/Stormwater Department, 812-254-2792 to submit your plan.

For more information, please read the following documents, or visit the IDEM website.

Conservation Partners

The Daviess County Soil & Water Conservation District and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibit discrimination in all their programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, and marital or family status.